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Final Round in the Books at 2017 Big Sky Men’s Golf Championships

By: Bryson Lester, Assistant Director of Strategic Communications 

BOULDER CITY, NEV. – The 2017 Men's Golf Big Sky Championship wrapped up on Sunday afternoon, and the Thunderbirds ended competition in fifth place as a team at Boulder Creek Golf Club.

SUU's Fidel Concepcion had his best round of the tournament on Sunday, shooting a one-under 71. That score brought his three-round total to a 226 (81, 74, 71), which tied him for the best finish on the team with Ali Hameed, who finished with a 226 (76, 78, 72) as well. The duo finished in a tie for 13th on the leaderboard.

“There wasn't a big difference from yesterday,” Concepcion said about his round. “The conditions were a lot better today from yesterday, the wind was definitely the biggest difference.”

SUU head coach Richard Church said it was nice to see the junior get back on track on the final day of the competition.

“I'm sure Fidel was disappointed with the start of his tournament, but he was able to right the ship and come out with an under-par round today and we're proud of that,” he said.

After a strong second day, freshman Jake Vincent shot a 79 to close out play in Boulder City. His 231 (80, 72, 79) over three days put him in a tie for 19th.

Christian Karren was able to close strong on Sunday, shooting a one-over 73 which was the lowest of the three days. Karren shot a three-day total of 232 (83, 76, 73) and finished in a tie for 22nd.

Bradley Collet finished fifth for the Thunderbirds with a 247 (82, 83, 82) and in 36th place.  

As a team the Thunderbirds shot 295 on Sunday, after shooting a 319 on Friday and a 300 on Saturday. They ended the weekend with a 914.

“They showed some pride,” Church said about the gradual improvements. “We didn't have the start we would have liked, but they hung in there and we were able to post a couple respectable scores in the second and third round. We got better in every round and we're proud of that.”

For the second time in as many weeks, Sacramento State claimed a Big Sky title as their men's golf team secured the victory on Sunday. Their women's team was able to take home the trophy last weekend at the same course.

The Hornets had the top individual in the field as well, as Aaron Beverly claimed the individual title by shooting a 215 (73, 70, 72) over the three days of competition.

NCAA Regionals

SUU's Concepcion is currently in the running for a spot in NCAA Regional competition as an individual. In total, 45 players are selected to compete as individuals.  

The field of competitors for each regional location will not be announced until Thursday morning on the 2017 NCAA Division I Men's Golf Championships Selections Announcement. That will air on May 4 at 10 a.m. MT on Golf Channel.